Perceived draught and odors: The key to SBS and indoor environment in hospital administrative offices - The AIRMED project

Background Indoor air quality (IAQ) is a growing concern, yet the link between IAQ perception, sick building syndromes (SBS), and actual IAQ parameters remains unclear. This study aims to investigate the association between perceived IAQ, SBS, and chemical parameters. Method A cross-sectional study was conducted in the hospital administrative offices using a standardized self-assessment questionnaire for working conditions, and IAQ perception, with SBS. Formaldehyde and CO2 levels were measured, and compared to international standards. Statistical analysis, including multivariable logistic and linear regression (p < 0.05), explored relationships between perception, SBS, and chemical parameters. Results Of 261 participants (90 % response rate), the most common SBS symptoms were mucosal membrane irritations. The common working environmental complaints included dust and dirt, varying room temperature, and draught, respectively. The general and mucosal SBS symptoms were significantly associated with often perceived draught (aOR 5.99, 95 % CI 1.31 to 27.49 and aOR 3.38, 95 % CI 1.07 to 10.71, respectively). Formaldehyde levels in most offices exceeded limits, while CO2 did not. Frequent unpleasant odor perception correlated with dermal SBS symptoms and formaldehyde levels, reporting "often" perceived unpleasant odor when formaldehyde levels were 0.28 ppm or higher (95 % CI 0.01 to 0.57). Draught perception positively correlated with CO2 concentration. Conclusions This study showed connections between workplace perception and SBS, along with an association of workplace perception with IAQ chemical parameters. Self-perception questionnaires are valuable for investigating formaldehyde, CO2, and SBS, especially regarding draughts and odors. Further research should explore specific dimensions of actual IAQ and IAQ perception for a comprehensive understanding.